#1099 - Christopher Ryan
NaN minutesEpisode #1099
Christopher Ryan, Ph.D. is a psychologist, speaker, and author of New York Times best seller “Sex At Dawn” and he also hosts a podcast called “Tangentially Speaking" available on Spotify. His latest book "Tangentially Reading" is available now.
Episodes with Christopher Ryan
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Episode Timestamps
Chris Ryan and the Rattlesnake Guy: Adventures in Bisbee
- Chris Ryan discusses his recent trip to Bisbee, mentioning its association with Doug Stanhope.
- He meets John Porter, a passionate rattlesnake researcher who has studied snakes for 50 years.
- Ryan learns about rattlesnake venom and the natural behaviors of these reptiles from Porter.
Memorable Moments: Childhood Mishaps and Animal Encounters
- Ryan recalls a childhood incident where he accidentally harmed a rabbit, leading to the care of its orphaned babies.
- He discusses the challenges of raising the rabbits and the eventual sad outcome.
- The conversation highlights themes of innocence and the unexpected consequences of childhood actions.
Psychologists Eric and Joe Discuss the Impact of Instant Communication on Human Interaction
- Eric and Joe explore how instant communication through social media alters personal interactions.
- They discuss the bizarre phenomenon of anti-gay ministers secretly involved in homosexual acts, revealing societal hypocrisy.
- The conversation emphasizes the psychological effects of online trolling and the disconnection it creates in human relationships.
Expats Share Insights: Eric's 25 Years in Spain and the Quest for Cultural Understanding
- Eric reflects on his 25-year residency in Spain and the insights gained from living abroad.
- The discussion touches on the importance of understanding one’s cultural biases through travel and immersion.
- They highlight experiences that shape identities, emphasizing that a person’s environment can drastically influence their way of life.
Joe's German Class Torture and Unrequited Love for Judy Gumpf
- Joe recalls his struggles with learning German primarily motivated by his crush on Judy Gumpf.
- Herr Flint, the German teacher and soccer coach, passed Joe in German as long as he played soccer, despite Joe's lack of talent.
- Joe experiences humiliation both in class and on the soccer field, feeling out of place compared to the beautiful Judy.
Joe's Missed Opportunities with the Gorgeous Puerto Rican Girl and Airline Scare
- Joe recalls interactions with a stunning Puerto Rican girl during high school, highlighting his nervousness and missed social opportunities.
- He shares a memory of a Trump airline incident that captively drew attention during lunch.
- The Puerto Rican girl’s involvement with a recruiting Christian cult led Joe to a realization about his confidence and social dynamics.
Jay Leno and the 1965 Corvette: A Tribute to Classic American Muscle Cars
- Discussion on the beauty and craftsmanship of vintage Mustangs and Corvettes, particularly a 1965 Corvette convertible.
- Personal anecdotes about driving the car, including a memorable drive with Jay Leno on Angels Crest Highway.
- Exploration of modern upgrades that enhance the performance and safety of classic cars while maintaining their classic appeal.
Brett Weinstein's 'Sex at Dawn': The Controversial Debate on Monogamy
- Joe Rogan reflects on the reactions to Brett Weinstein's book, highlighting the emotional responses it provokes regarding monogamy.
- The conversation delves into the critiques faced by popular nonfiction books and the complexities of discussing sensitive topics like sexuality.
- Discussion on the broader implications of how societal norms regarding relationships can lead to shame and resentment.
Exploring St. Peter's Basilica: A Stunning Contrast to 1506's Starvation
- Description of the ornate architecture and history of St. Peter's Basilica.
- Discussion on historical social conditions in 1506, highlighting evident disparity between the grandeur of structures and the suffering of local populations.
- Observation of the massive stone obelisk and the implications of cheap labor used in constructing such magnificent buildings.
The Aquatic Ape Theory: Unraveling the Evolutionary Puzzle of Human Adaptation
- Introduction to the Aquatic Ape Theory, suggesting ancestral humans spent significant time in water, impacting physiological traits.
- Connecting the physiological changes humans undergo when submerged to potential evolutionary advantages.
- Insights into human and chimpanzee differences, particularly regarding physiological adaptations and swimming capabilities.
The Elephant Artist: Contrasting Human and Animal Intelligence with Joe Rogan
- Discussion on the ability of an elephant to paint and replicate its own image, prompting questions about animal intelligence.
- Joe Rogan and his guest contemplate the ethics of training animals for entertainment, particularly elephants in art.
- Debate over intelligence being expressed in different ways among animals and humans, highlighting a major controversy in nature versus nurture.
Controversial Perspectives on Intelligence: Sam Harris and Charles Murray's Debate
- Overview of the contentious debate involving Sam Harris, Ezra Klein, and Charles Murray surrounding racial differences in IQ.
- Discussion on the implications of Murray's book 'The Bell Curve' and its claims on genetic intelligence disparities among races.
- Joe Rogan shares personal insights and experiences regarding educational environments and their impact on intelligence development.
Joe Rogan Meets Microbiome Expert Jeff Leach in Turlingua, Texas
- Joe and his friends arrived in Turlingua, Texas to secure a backcountry permit.
- They connected with Jeff Leach, a world-renowned microbiome scientist with innovative methods involving hunter-gatherers in Africa.
- Their unexpected friendship blossomed over beers and discussions about the microbiome, leading to a podcast collaboration.
Exploring Psychedelic Experiences and Cultural Humor with Aubrey Marcus
- Discussions on the intricacies of African and Native American musical rhythms in inducing altered states.
- Aubrey Marcus shared insights regarding psychedelic experiences, specifically with tree frog poison and the accompanying rituals.
- The conversation reflected on writing, temporary beauty, and the philosophical approach towards fitness and mortality.
Joe Rogan Reflects on Creative Freedom Over Corporate Publishing with Misfit Press
- Joe expresses his desire to maintain artistic control over his work and avoid corporate interference.
- He discusses his successful podcasting career and the flexible nature of creating content without major publishing constraints.
- Highlights his recent project with Misfit Press, where he collaborates with listeners to compile podcast excerpts into a book.
Exploring Intimacy and Authenticity in Podcasting with Chris Ryan
- Joe and Chris explore the unique intimacy of podcasting, where they connect with listeners directly through their conversations.
- They discuss the lack of production constraints and how it allows for genuine interactions that resonate with audiences.
- Joe emphasizes the transformative impact of his podcast on his life and the relationships he's built with influential guests.
Chris Discusses the Burden of Fame with Michael Jackson's Tragic Story
- Chris reflects on the responsibility that comes with fame, contrasting it with people's struggles in everyday life.
- He shares concerns over the impact of exposing children to fame, referencing Michael Jackson's experiences and exploitation.
- Despite the allure of fame, Chris concludes it should not be aspired to and warns of the imbalance and emptiness it can create.
Russell Brand's Transformation: From Excess to Spiritual Wisdom
- Chris admires Russell Brand for navigating through addiction and fame, emerging as a conscious and humble individual.
- He recalls a personal story highlighting his stark contrast with a disciplined friend, drawing parallels to Brand's journey.
- The conversation highlights the continuous struggle with self-identity and success for both comedians and celebrities.
Joe Rogan Reflects on Identity and Mortality While Dressed as Frank Sinatra
- Joe Rogan discusses the last time he wore a tie, recalling a photoshoot for his 1999 CD where he donned old school Frank Sinatra attire.
- The conversation shifts to life reflections, with Rogan sharing his philosophy on the inevitability of death and the importance of enjoying life.
- He humorously suggests that every young man should shave their head to confront their appearance and mortality.
Exploring Cultural Curiosities: Syphilis, Wigs, and the Human Experience
- Rogan and his guest discuss the historical significance of powdered wigs, revealing their origins linked to syphilis outbreaks among royalty.
- The conversation touches on the inability to view cultural customs objectively, emphasizing the relativity of cultural norms across different societies.
- Rogan reflects on the allure of tribal life and how individuals from civilization often romanticize native lifestyles, hinting at a deeper human connection to nature.
Peter Matheson Reflects on Civilization and Personal Health Experiences
- Peter Matheson discusses the isolation and escape from civilization during travel.
- He shares personal stories about suffering from Jardian and the struggles faced while traveling in various locations.
- A memorable encounter with a German woman at the Mayan ruins of Palenque reveals Matheson's health challenges and ironic romantic interest.
Andrew Weil's Revolutionary Perspective on Drugs and Health Benefits
- Andrew Weil, a prominent figure in the study of psychoactive substances, emphasizes the need for objective understanding of drug effects.
- He conducted pioneering studies on marijuana that challenged conventional views on its impacts on activities like driving and perception.
- Weil's lifelong advocacy for viewing drugs, including marijuana, as tools rather than inherently dangerous substances underscores serious issues in scientific and societal perceptions.
Andy Wiles: The Hippie Doctor Who Defied Drug Norms and Brought Alternative Medicine Mainstream
- Andy Wiles gained fame in the 1980s with books on complementary medicine, featuring Ayurveda and Chinese traditions.
- He established a certification program at the University of Arizona for doctors in alternative medicine.
- Despite mainstream success, Wiles unwaveringly maintained his stance against the overuse of drugs.
The Scorpion Sting Dilemma: A Dangerous Night in the Guatemalan Jungle
- The narrative recounts a personal experience of a scorpion sting while visiting the Mayan ruins of Tikal in Guatemala.
- Amid a psychedelic experience, the protagonist learns from a local that scorpions can be lethal.
- The story explores the fear and urgency of getting down from a tall temple while dealing with the unknown severity of the sting.
Chris's Life-Defining Moment: Trapped in the Guatemalan Jungle
- Chris experiences a life-threatening incident after being stung by a scorpion while lost in the darkness of the Guatemalan jungle.
- Amid panic, he reflects on his life accomplishments, finding peace with potentially facing death at 27 years old.
- An Italian stranger attempts to help him communicate with a local man claiming to be a doctor to address Chris's condition.
The Controversy of the Atkins Diet and Its Impact on Health
- A discussion arises about Dr. Robert Atkins, his controversial diet, and the circumstances surrounding his death.
- Chris shares insights on the importance of maintaining a low-carb diet while following high-fat diets to ensure better health.
- The conversation leads to Chris reflecting on his own health scare after drinking untreated water, resulting in hepatitis from a dirty bucket.
Robert Sapolsky and the Intricacies of Gut Microbiome's Influence on Behavior
- Discussion on how poor dietary choices impact the microbiome, particularly sugar and low fiber intake.
- Explores the concept of superorganisms, referencing Robert Sapolsky's insights on toxoplasmosis and its effects on host behavior.
- Highlights fascinating examples of altered animal behavior due to microbiome interactions, such as mice attracted to cat pheromones.
The Evolution of Podcasting: A Medium for Unfiltered Voices and Social Change
- Comparison of podcasting to the printing press in its potential for social change and direct access to audiences.
- Discussion about the financial dynamics in publishing, including the disparity of earnings between authors and publishers.
- Contemplation on the future of content creation, suggesting the development of new platforms that allow creators to connect directly with audiences for income.
Ari Shafir's Insight on the Publishing Industry and Creative Control
- Authors are increasingly expected to manage their own media and public relations while still sharing revenues with traditional publishers.
- The case of '50 Shades of Grey' highlights the potential success of self-published works despite the obstacles presented by mainstream media.
- Ari Shafir discusses the complexities of creative expression, potential memoir ideas, and societal perceptions of sexuality.
Cultural Insights from Ari Shafir's Experiences in Japan and Open Relationships
- Ari reflects on cultural differences, such as tattoo stigma in Japan, and the contrasts in societal norms across the globe.
- Discussion of open relationships suggests a shift in societal expectations surrounding love and sexuality, influenced by personal anecdotes.
- The rise of podcasts is credited with fostering discussions around complex topics such as monogamy and cultural practices, enabling deeper understanding among listeners.
Joe Rogan's Insight on Intellectualism and Cultural Norms
- Rogan discusses the limitations of intelligence without action, emphasizing that being smart doesn't equate to good life decisions.
- He critiques academia for lacking diverse political perspectives, noting that only a small percentage of professors identify as conservative.
- Rogan explores the complex cultural perceptions of homosexuality, exemplified by a Papua New Guinea tribe's non-homosexual interpretation of male sexual behavior.
Unpackaging Human Behavior: Cannibalism, Bears, and Environmental Adaptation
- Rogan explains how cultural practices like cannibalism can be attributed to ecological factors, citing the Aztecs and various Pacific Islander cultures.
- He shares an anecdote about bear behavior, highlighting their cannibalistic tendencies and the harsh realities of their survival.
- The discussion touches on Rogan's personal experiences in Alaska, including working at a salmon cannery and the dangers of bear encounters.
Joe Rogan Explores the Fascinating World of Orcas Beyond Bigfoot Myths
- Joe Rogan discusses the incredible characteristics of orcas, highlighting their complex communication abilities and strong familial bonds.
- He compares orcas to mythical creatures like Bigfoot, suggesting orcas are far more fascinating due to their reality.
- The conversation touches on topics such as strange subgenres of literature, humorously linking it to Bigfoot erotica.
Joe Rogan's First Prostate Exam and the Encounter with a Badass Urologist
- Joe shares his humorous experience of a first prostate exam and gives praise to his urologist who performed his own vasectomy.
- He discusses the importance of health and how changing his routine to include yoga helped improve his wellbeing.
- The episode highlights the camaraderie between Joe and his guests, discussing everything from health practices to favorite local restaurants.
Scarlett Johansson's Epic Bicycle Adventure in Canyonlands
- Scarlett Johansson shares her thrilling experience biking in Canyonlands, Utah.
- She describes a 20-mile journey that felt like a leisurely horseback ride.
- Concerns about mountain lions lurking in the area surface during the conversation.
Wildlife Encounters: Coyotes, Foxes, and the Grizzly Man
- Discussion about various wildlife encounters, including a coyote's audacity to dig up a buried chicken.
- The dynamic relationship between humans and wild animals, as illustrated by stories from 'Grizzly Man' and 'Life Below Zero's' Sue Aikens.
- Insights into animal behavior, such as foxes becoming almost domesticated and the role of apex predators like bears in ecosystem balance.
Dan Flores Explores History of Bison Ecology and Native American Impact
- Dan Flores discusses the overpopulation of bison after the decimation of Native American populations due to European diseases.
- The bison boom was linked to the decline of Native American hunters in the early 1800s, which allowed bison herds to flourish.
- The narrative addresses the role of early settlers and market hunting in the near extinction of bison and other game animals.
The Journey Through the Untamed West and Native American Civilization
- The podcast illustrates the cultural clash when Europeans encountered Native American civilizations, which were vastly different from the cities in Europe.
- Discussion includes the contrasts between European advancements and the lifestyles of Native Americans living in harmonized communities.
- Personal anecdotes about staying in luxury teepees and the unique features of their design bring a modern twist to ancient practices.